International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health

Kolla A et al. Int J Community Med Public Health. 2025 Mar;12(3):1523-1530

http://www.ijcmph.com

pISSN 2394-6032 | eISSN 2394-6040

Review Article

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20250650

Traditional ethnomedicinal practices for gynecological disorders among the Gond tribe of Chhattisgarh: a regional perspective

Andrea Kolla1, Shobha Gawri1, Varaprasad Kolla2, Bharti Sahu1*

1Department of Biotechnology, Seth Phoolchand Agarwal Smriti Mahavidyalaya, Navapara, Rajim, Chhattisgarh, India

2Amity University, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India

Received: 25 October 2024

Revised: 31 January 2025

Accepted: 01 February 2025

*Correspondence:

Dr. Bharti Sahu,

E-mail: bharti15august@gmail.com

Copyright: © the author(s), publisher and licensee Medip Academy. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License, which permits unrestricted non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

ABSTRACT

The Gond tribe, one of the largest tribal communities in India, is predominantly concentrated in Chhattisgarh, particularly in forest villages. Known for their rich cultural heritage and deep connection to nature, the Gonds rely heavily on the forests for their livelihood, including food, medicine, and materials for daily use. Traditional knowledge plays a crucial role in their healthcare, especially in addressing women's health issues. The Gond community has preserved its ancient practices of folk medicine, using a variety of medicinal plants to treat gynecological disorders such as menstrual irregularities, reproductive health concerns, and postpartum issues. This study focuses on the ethnomedicinal plants used by the Gond tribe for women's health in regions like Bilaspur, Gariyaband, Korba, and Saraipali. Through field surveys and interviews with local healers and community members, information was gathered on 34 plant species traditionally used for gynecological problems. Detailed data was compiled, including botanical names, plant families, local names, parts used, and medicinal properties. The Gonds utilize a diverse range of plants, preparing specific remedies for different gynecological issues, including menstrual disorders, fertility challenges, and menopause symptoms. Despite the availability of modern healthcare, these traditional remedies continue to be highly valued for their effectiveness. The findings of this study emphasize the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and the need for conserving these valuable plant resources. It advocates for integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare systems to improve women's health outcomes in the region and ensure the sustainability of this ethnobotanical knowledge.

Keywords: Ethno-medicine, Gynecological disorders, Gond tribe, Chhattisgarh, Traditional medicine, Medicinal plants

INTRODUCTION

Chhattisgarh is known for its tropical moist deciduous forests and tropical dry deciduous forests. It has unique biogeography and vast genetic plant diversity in the area of Protected forests (24036.100 sq.km.) and reserved forests (25782.167 sq.km.).1 Chhattisgarh is endowed by nature with an abundance of healing plants. In the state of Chhattisgarh, forests covering 44% of its land area are home to a wide variety of plants with significant ethnomedical value. Since ancient times, many tribal people have lived in Chhattisgarh's forests, where the forest's natural resources have provided for their medical needs.

A vast majority of the tribal populations in Chhattisgarh live in rural areas and mainly belong to Gond tribes. Gond is the dominant tribe of Chhattisgarh as well as of India. The Gonds are one of the largest non-Aryan and Dravidian forest tribe of India; they have been concentrated in almost all regions of Chhattisgarh.2 Like other tribal communities of the world, the Gond tribe of Chhattisgarh, are totally dependent on the forest and its produce for their livelihood. Gond tribes have their own system of treatment or cure of any ailments. Their medical system consists of traditional herbal remedies, magico- religious acst and modern medical facilities available from nearby village. Gonds approach traditional healers for their primary health care needs, due to ease of availability, accessibility and affordability.3 They have great faith towards traditional system of medicine and traditional healers. Gonds rely on medicine procured from plant. The Gond tribes of Chhattisgarh, possess a rich tradition of ethnobotany, particularly in the realm of treating various health issues, including gynecological disorders.4 Their knowledge of local plants and their medicinal properties has been passed down through generations, often forming the basis for traditional healing practices.5 The Gond tribe of Chhattisgarh, one of India’s largest indigenous groups, has a rich cultural heritage that includes the use of local flora for treating a variety of ailments.

Gynecological problems have historically presented serious health risks, especially for rural and indigenous people with limited access to traditional medical care. Ethnomedicine, the study of traditional medicinal practices, offers valuable insights into the healing systems of various cultures, including gynecological issues. Ethno-gynecology is a developing field that treats conditions such as abortion, menstruation issues, menopause syndrome, morning sickness, leucorrhoea, infertility, and delivery issues.6-8 Tribes have their own natural/ spiritual therapies to treat a wide range of gynaecological problems from menstrual pain, to menopause and delivery.9,10 In many ethnic remedies, using whole plants as medication is a frequent practice. Traditional medical professionals think that this can increase the drug's effectiveness.11

Indigenous ethano-botanical knowledge of tribal medicinal plants is a cultural heritage, an economically significant scientific resource that should be documented, protected, developed. Identification of these ethnomedical herbs and dissemination of this indigenous knowledge are crucial for the betterment of society as a whole.12

Ethnobotanical knowledge is currently in danger of disappearing. As the habitats of many valuable plants are destroyed by changes in land use brought on by urbanization and senior traditional healers pass away without passing on their knowledge. In a culture that is changing quickly, the loss of traditional medical knowledge is as irrevocable as the extinction of plant species. In order to prevent much of this from disappearing or before the locals give up using the plants for traditional medicine, efforts should be done to chronicle the therapeutic uses of the plants.

This manuscript aims to identify and document the ethnomedicinal plants utilized by the Gond tribe for addressing gynecological disorders. By exploring the intersection of traditional knowledge and plant-based remedies, we seek to highlight the significance of these practices in promoting women's health within the community.13

METHODS

Study area

Data for this study was gathered at random from several regions of the state of Chhattisgarh. The geographical coordinates of Chhattisgarh are 8.40 to 83.33 east longitude and 17 to 23.7 degrees north latitude. Villages of different regions (Karsiwa, Lohari and Parasi, Tehsil of Marwhi, Bilaspur district); (Andora, Badmar and Chikhli, Tehsil of Bindranavagarh, Gariyaband district); (Botarada, Kalgamar and Mahora, Tehsil of Kartala, Korba district); (Gerra, Kalidarha and Konkadi, Tehsil of Sarapali, Mahasamund district) of Chhattisgarh State were covered. The present manuscript concentrates on the customary medicines used for gynecological conditions by the Gond women from different region of Chhattisgarh.

Data collection

The ethnomedical data was gathered from a number of sources, including, literature review, field survey, interview with the locals, and ethano botanical surveys in order to identify and document the different ancient folk medicinal plants and their preparations used by Gond tribes of different region of Chhattisgarh for treating gynaecological disorders The data was analyzed by comparing the similarities and differences in the treatment methods. The investigation reveals the plant species' local name, the portion of the plant that traditional healers use, and the therapeutic approach used by various Gond tribes in Chhattisgarh. The botanical names of the species are used as a scientific means of identification.

RESULTS

We gathered and examined information on the medicinal plants that the Gond tribes of Chhattisgarh's diverse regions used to treat a range of gynecological problems. The utilization and enumeration of these have been described in Tables 1-4. According to the current research, indigenous women in the study area have a strong belief in traditional medicine. They appear to rely on plants to treat a wide range of illnesses and gynecological ailments that affect them, such as leucorrhea, sterility, menstruation problems, urinary disorders, conception disorders, and abortion.14 Traditionally, people rely on herbal remedies recommended by elderly women (chief trainers) or knowledgeable village medicine men instead of visiting a doctor or clinic.

It has been noted that Gond of Gariyaband used a decoction of Ashoka root, Arjuna bark, Rasna root, and giloy to treat irregular menstruation. The Gonds of Bilaspur use Nirgundi (Figure 1b) for menstrual disorders and restoration of fertility, Gonds of Korba region use dried rhizomes of Ratanjot, while Gonds of Saraipali use stems of Raktmahajaal during the menstrual period to treat sterility.

Figure 1: Images of a few common medicinal plants (a) Satavar, (b) Nirgundi, (c) Bhatkatai, and (d) Dudhi.
Figure 1: Images of a few common medicinal plants (a) Satavar, (b) Nirgundi, (c) Bhatkatai, and (d) Dudhi.

Chirchira is used for easy delivery by the Gond of Gariyaband whereas leaves of Satavar (Figure 1a) and Sitaphal and seedlings of Charota are used by Gond of Bilaspur. For the treatment of Leucorrhoea, Gonds of the Korba region use Bans (leaves), Gonds of Gariyaband use Dudhi (leaves) and Ashoka (bark), Gonds of Bilaspur use Dudhi and Bhatkatai (Figure 1c and d) (leaves) along with Kulthi (seed) while Gonds of Korba use Ramdatun (root) for the same. However, the root of Ramdatun is used for treating gonorrohea disease (STD) by the Gonds of Saraipali region. Impotency is treated using Kali musli (root) and (tuber) by the Gonds of Bilaspur and Korba, while Kismis (fruit) is used by Gonds of Saraipali. Anantmool (root) is used for treating urinary disorders by Gond tribe of Bilaspur region whereas Gond tribe of Korba preferred Lajwanti (whole plant) for treatment of the same.

Masbandhi (root) is used for abortion by Gond tribe of Gariyaband while Sitaphal (leaves) is used for treating abortion by Gonds in Bilaspur region while Chirayata (whole plant) is used by Gonds of Saraipali region for treating similar conditions.

Table 1: Medicinal flora of Bilaspur: Gond tribe applications and uses.
Table reproduced from source PDF page 3, part 1 of 2
Table reproduced from source PDF page 4, part 2 of 2
Table 2: Medicinal flora of Gariyaband: Gond tribe applications and uses.
Table reproduced from source PDF page 4
Table 3: Medicinal flora of Korba: Gond tribe applications and uses.
Table reproduced from source PDF page 4, part 1 of 2
Table reproduced from source PDF page 5, part 2 of 2
Table 4: Medicinal flora of Saraipali: Gond tribe applications and uses.
Table reproduced from source PDF page 5, part 1 of 2
Table reproduced from source PDF page 6, part 2 of 2

DISCUSSION

The medicinal practices of the Gond tribes of Chhattisgarh, particularly their reliance on medicinal plants to treat gynecological ailments, provide significant insights into traditional healthcare systems. This study demonstrates the depth of knowledge regarding indigenous plant species used to treat a wide range of gynecological conditions, including menstrual disorders, infertility, urinary problems, and complications related to pregnancy. The findings align with global ethnobotanical research that highlights the extensive use of plant-based medicines in indigenous communities and their potential to contribute to modern medical knowledge.22,23

The study clearly shows that the Gond tribes have developed an intricate understanding of plant properties over generations. These tribes rely on a range of botanical remedies for common gynecological issues. Leucorrhea, a condition characterized by abnormal vaginal discharge, is treated with various plant materials, such as Bans (bamboo leaves), Dudhi (bottle gourd leaves), Ashoka (Saraca asoca bark), and Ramdatun (root). These plants have well-documented medicinal properties in various parts of the world. For example, Saraca asoca has been traditionally used to treat gynecological issues such as leucorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and uterine disorders, with studies confirming its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.24 Similarly, Vitex negundo (Nirgundi), another plant used by the Gonds for menstrual disorders, has demonstrated therapeutic potential in regulating menstrual cycles and treating conditions like dysmenorrheal.25

The use of Kali musli (Curculigo orchioides) and Ratanjot (Heterophyllym ramosissimum) to treat infertility and impotence is also noteworthy. These plants are well-known in traditional medicine for their adaptogenic and aphrodisiac properties. Curculigo orchioides, for instance, is reported to enhance fertility and treat sexual dysfunction due to its effect on hormone regulation and its ability to improve blood circulation.26 Heterophyllym ramosissimum, although less studied, is cited in traditional pharmacopoeias for its use in promoting reproductive health and enhancing sexual vitality.27 These examples underscore the significant potential of these plants as candidates for scientific validation and therapeutic development.

The Gonds utilize diverse methods of preparing medicinal plant materials, including decoctions, powders, and infusions. For instance, the Gonds of Gariyaband use a decoction made from a mixture of Ashoka root, Arjuna bark, Rasna root, and Giloy to treat irregular menstruation, which reflects the common practice of combining multiple plant species to create synergistic effects. This is consistent with ethnobotanical research which suggests that polyherbal remedies are often preferred in traditional medicine because they may offer a broader spectrum of activity with reduced side effects compared to single plant extracts.28

The use of Chirchira (whole plant) by the Gonds of Gariyaband for facilitating labor highlights another interesting aspect of plant-based treatment. While the clinical efficacy of such plants needs further exploration, similar plant species have shown oxytocic properties, which could explain their traditional use in easing childbirth.29

The medicinal plants used by the Gond tribes of Chhattisgarh represent a rich source of bioactive compounds that could be explored for modern pharmacological applications. For instance, Saraca asoca has been the subject of various studies that confirm its therapeutic potential in treating menstrual disorders and regulating reproductive health.24 Vitex negundo, widely used for menstrual irregularities, has been reported to exert effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, influencing hormonal balance and improving reproductive health outcomes.25 Similarly, compounds from Curculigo orchioides have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and aphrodisiac properties, suggesting that it could be a valuable therapeutic agent for both infertility and general reproductive health.30

Further studies on the bioactive compounds present in these plants could reveal novel therapeutic agents for gynecological issues, such as menstrual disorders, infertility, and sexually transmitted diseases. Collaborations between ethnobotanists, pharmacologists, and local communities will be crucial for validating and expanding the medicinal use of these plants.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the rich ethnobotanical knowledge of the Gond tribe in Chhattisgarh, specifically regarding the use of medicinal plants for addressing gynecological disorders. The findings reveal a diverse array of plants traditionally employed to manage issues such as menstrual irregularities, infections, and fertility challenges. The integration of traditional practices with modern health perspectives can enhance healthcare options for women in these communities. Preserving this indigenous knowledge is crucial, not only for the cultural heritage of the Gond tribe but also for potential contributions to modern medicine. Finally, this study underscores the significance of ethno medicine and its role in promoting women's health within indigenous populations.

Funding: No funding sources

Conflict of interest: None declared

Ethical approval: Not required

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